A Passion Project of Maryland–Bosnia and Herzegovina Educational Cooperation
June 4, 2025 — The Maryland–Bosnia and Herzegovina Exchange Council (MBHEC) convened a landmark virtual meeting, officially launching a long-term higher education partnership between the State of Maryland and Bosnia and Herzegovina. This historic initiative brings together educational institutions, diplomats, and state officials to promote collaboration in education, research, and youth opportunity.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders including the Maryland Secretary of State’s Office, the Maryland International Education Consortium (MIEC), the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Washington, D.C., and four leading public universities from Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“A Deep Civilian-to-Civilian Connection”
The event opened with strong support from Deputy Secretary of State Michael Lore, who emphasized Maryland’s leadership in subnational diplomacy:
“This is an incredibly important partnership. Maryland leads the nation in subnational diplomacy, and we’re proud to extend that commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Our goal is a deep civilian-to-civilian connection, especially among our universities.”
Lore also announced that Governor Wes Moore will issue a formal proclamation honoring the launch of this collaboration.
Adnan Hadrović, representing MBHEC, echoed the significance of the event:
“This meeting reflects more than an exchange of ideas — it’s a shared vision for building real and lasting bridges between our two nations.”
Also in attendance were Ms. Amela Sudžuka-Ćerimagić from the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina and LTC Zoran Jović from the Defense Attaché’s Office, both of whom reaffirmed their institutions’ ongoing support for this effort.
Bosnian and Herzegovinian Universities Signal Global Readiness
Four public universities from Bosnia and Herzegovina delivered presentations that underscored their readiness to collaborate and their commitment to transatlantic education:
- University of Sarajevo showcased its robust academic ecosystem, growing English-language programs, and plans for a modernized library.
Professor Kemal Durić:
“Our faculties are ready to pursue joint research and build meaningful partnerships that serve students on both sides of the Atlantic.” - University of Banja Luka emphasized its strong international networks and membership in the European Cross-Border Alliance.
Professor Dalibor Kešić:
“Research diplomacy is a key priority. We’re eager to create long-lasting academic synergies with U.S. counterparts.” - University of Mostar highlighted its dual accreditation, multilingual offerings, and regional importance.
Dr. Inja Stojkić and Ana Šuman:
“We are excited to internationalize further and welcome Maryland universities as long-term partners.” - University Džemal Bijedić of Mostar underlined its participation in Horizon Europe, Erasmus+, and COST programs.
Ms. Amela Piralić:
“Our internationalization strategy is robust. We’re ready for faculty exchanges, joint degrees, and shared research.”
Shared Vision, Shared Momentum
Representing the Maryland side, Raechel Scholten and Christopher Powers introduced the Maryland International Education Consortium and its wide-ranging institutional membership. Representatives from several Maryland universities expressed keen interest in establishing joint initiatives.
Early consensus formed around the following priorities:
- Student and faculty exchanges
- Joint and dual degree programs
- Collaborative research
- Virtual classroom pilots
- Summer and short-term academic programs
Jane Ann Williams from Washington College proposed launching small-scale virtual exchange classrooms to build early faculty rapport and trust.
Closing the session, MBHEC Liaison Mia Bakal affirmed the partnership’s forward momentum:
“This is the beginning of something truly transformative. We’re not just signing MOUs — we’re creating connections and opportunities that will shape the next generation of students, scholars, researchers, and institutions.”
“We are thrilled by the energy, interest, and goodwill in the room today, and we’re just getting started.”
What’s Next
A follow-up meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, June 11, 2025, during which Maryland universities will present their program offerings and strategic goals for cooperation with Bosnian and Herzegovinian institutions.
A Partnership Beyond Protocol
This initiative is more than a diplomatic gesture — it is a passion project rooted in shared values, driven by institutional support and a commitment to youth opportunity and global understanding. With higher education as common ground, Maryland and Bosnia and Herzegovina are forging a new bridge — one built on purpose, progress, and long-term collaboration.
Stay connected with MBHEC for further updates as this transformative partnership unfolds.
